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MDCT findings of aortic branch artery pseudoaneurysms associated with type B intramural haematoma
S Seitun1, U G Rossi, F Cademartiri
1UOC Radiodiagnostica e Radiologia Interventistica, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria San Martino-IST, Monoblocco 1-F, Largo Rosanna Benzi 10, 16132, Genova, Italy. saraseitun@yahoo.com
Purpose:
The purpose of this study was to evaluate prevalence, morphological characteristics and evolution of aortic branch artery pseudoaneurysms associated with type B aortic intramural haematoma (IMH) using multidetector computed tomography (MDCT).
Materials And Methods:
We enrolled 14 patients (nine men; mean age 64.6±9.6; range 42-75 years) with a diagnosis in the acute phase of type B IMH without evidence of intimal tear. All patients underwent clinical and MDCT follow-up.
Results:
Twenty-two pseudoaneurysms in six patients (6/14, 43%) were observed at MDCT. In the majority of patients (5/6, 83%) the pseudoaneurysms were multiple and involved the branches of the descending thoracic aorta (14/22, 64%), mainly the intercostal arteries (11/22, 50%). At a mean follow-up of 10.6±8.7 months, 21 pseudoaneurysms showed resolution, reduction or dimensional stability (95%), whereas only one increased in size (5%).
Conclusions:
Aortic branch artery pseudoaneurysms associated with IMH may be considered a benign disease, as the majority of cases resolved or did not change in size, with haematoma resorption. However, because a dynamic change in pseudoaneurysms in the acute and subacute phases was frequently observed, close clinical and imaging follow-up is mandatory.
Insights
Aortic branch artery pseudoaneurysms linked to type B aortic intramural hematoma (IMH) are often benign, with most cases resolving or stabilizing. Close follow-up is still essential due to potential early changes.
Area of Science:
- Vascular Surgery
- Radiology
- Cardiovascular Imaging
Background:
- Type B aortic intramural hematoma (IMH) is a variant of aortic dissection.
- Branch artery pseudoaneurysms can be a complication of aortic pathologies.
- Understanding their behavior in IMH is crucial for patient management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence and characteristics of aortic branch artery pseudoaneurysms in type B IMH.
- To evaluate the natural evolution of these pseudoaneurysms using multidetector computed tomography (MDCT).
- To assess the clinical significance and management implications of these findings.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 14 patients diagnosed with acute type B IMH without intimal tears.
- Utilized multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) for initial diagnosis and follow-up.
- Clinical and MDCT follow-up was performed for all enrolled patients.
Main Results:
- Pseudoaneurysms were identified in 43% of patients (6/14), with most being multiple (83%).
- The descending thoracic aorta branches, particularly intercostal arteries, were most commonly involved.
- Over a mean follow-up of 10.6 months, 95% of pseudoaneurysms showed resolution, size reduction, or stability.
Conclusions:
- Aortic branch artery pseudoaneurysms associated with type B IMH appear to follow a generally benign course.
- The majority resolve or remain stable, suggesting favorable outcomes with hematoma resorption.
- Despite the benign trend, dynamic changes necessitate close clinical and imaging surveillance.
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